Freelancer Payment

onboarding contractors - Payreel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

How to simplify onboarding your freelancers
How to simplify onboarding your freelancers 5616 3744 PayReel

How much time are you spending setting up your freelancers?

If the answer is too much, then maybe it’s time to reconsider your methods. Let PayReel handle onboarding paperwork so you can spend your time and energy on the creative parts of your projects instead.

 

So what’s the problem?

Worker classification: One of the most difficult things about setting up your workforce is worker classification. That’s why we cover the topic extensively on our blog. While you may be able to answer who’s a strong worker and who might need a little bit of help, the worker classification discussion brings a lot more to the table than a black-and-white answer—especially now with the Department of Labor cracking down on worker classification errors. If the words exempt, non-exempt, W-2, and 1099 make your head spin, we can help with that.

Paying accurately: Another trick that comes into play when hiring your workforce is making sure you’re paying them accurately (we’re looking at you, minimum wage and overtime!) and in a timely manner. Did you know that some states have strict pay deadlines for specific types of employees? We know, and our team works hard to stay on top of the ever-changing wage laws at the federal, state, and local levels.

Payroll taxes: If taxes only cross your mind on or around April 15th, do the IRS (and yourself) a favor, and stop. Did you know that, along with differing wage laws, some states and localities require a different taxation method than the federal government does? It’s true. Here’s where we stress (and the only time we stress), we got it. Our team stays well versed in local, state, and ever-changing federal tax methods and laws to make sure the employee is happy, you’re happy, and of course, the IRS is happy.

 

Enter PayReel

If one, two, or all three of the points above make you sweat, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help manage your events, employees, and all the behind-the-scenes paperwork that comes with it.

About PayReel

Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic. When it comes to event payroll, payroll taxes, and so much more, PayReel makes your life easier. We make sure our clients are able to hire who they want, when they want and see that everyone is paid properly. Leave all payroll services and details up to the PayReel team so you can focus on pulling off a flawless production. Contact us anytime at 303-526-4900 or email us.

Relax. We got it.

About the author

Nat's notes

PayReel Customer Experience Manager Natalie “The Go Getter” McGinnis is an avid fan of sports and labor laws alike. Her experience in recruitment, customer service, and ongoing HR education give her the tools to provide laser-focused attention and assistance to the PayReel employees and clients who need it most. Click here to read more of Nat’s Notes then meet the rest of the PayReel team!

 

 

 

event payroll - Payreel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

Is there something you need to tell us?
Is there something you need to tell us? 5184 3456 PayReel

Keep in mind that anytime you move, change your phone number or email address, or have an update to your tax status, it’s important to keep your profile with PayReel updated. That way, we can keep you paid. 

 

How do I update my profile?

Submit any changes to your profile (address, tax status, direct deposit information, email address, phone number, oh my!) at any time. You can update your digits or submit nearly any change through your online portal, through the ‘Contact Us’ option on the website, or you can contact your account manager directly at 303-526-4900.

 

Where does my information go?

Don’t worry, your information won’t get lost in cyberspace—or worse, someone else’s hands. Our system is as secure as it is convenient. At PayReel, we pride ourselves on having that perfect mix of convenient automation and personal service from real, live humans. Excellent service from excellent humans.

Meet the whole team here (we’ll also be profiling them in upcoming newsletters so stay tuned!).

 

The bottom line

Keep us updated on life changes so we can keep you paid in the quick manner you’ve learned to expect from us. Help us help you.

 

About PayReel

At PayReel, we minimize the time and effort it takes to get you ready for your project, make sure you get paid quick and easy, and have customer service agents on call around the clock to answer your questions. All you have to do is call 303-526-4900 or email us. The PayReel team make event payroll easier, faster, and seamless.

The next time you work an event or a production, tell your supervisor you love working with the PayReel team!

 

 

How to set up an independent contractor - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

Are you an independent contractor? Be sure you know your rights
Are you an independent contractor? Be sure you know your rights 5000 2813 PayReel

Like many employers, the United States Department of Labor (DOL) has independent contractors (ICs) on the mind. And for good reason: They’re taking over the world! Or at least the world economy. ICs now make up 34% of the national economy and the trend is increasing internationally, too.

To that end, the US DOL has put out a list of resources for ICs. It covers on-the-job safety, benefits, workers’ rights, taxes, and more. This is especially helpful since best practices are constantly evolving and being defined/redefined.

Check out the site for more information on the following:

Questions about misclassification

As Uber’s tumultuous journey demonstrates, classification is a hot topic for everyone from the government to businesses. With their bottom line to watch out for and fines to protect themselves from, employers are wondering when and how to set up an independent contractor rather than an employee. For its part, the government has tax dollars on the line and workers to protect. And workers? Well, they’re watching their pocketbooks, too. With that much at stake, no wonder it’s a hot topic. 

The bottom line

It’s a complicated subject, but whatever you’re wondering, the DOL is a good place to start. Still have questions? Follow our blog for more information on topics such as evolving labor laws, compliance, worker classification, and more. We’ll keep you up to date and equipped to avoid common pitfalls.

 

About PayReel

At PayReel, we minimize the time and effort it takes to get you ready for your project, make sure you get paid quick and easy, and have customer service agents on call around the clock to answer your questions. All you have to do is call 303-526-4900 or email us. The PayReel team make event payroll easier, faster, and seamless.

The next time you work an event or a production, tell your supervisor you love working with the PayReel team!

 

 

worker classification - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

Our in-house HR specialist works hard to keep businesses compliant
Our in-house HR specialist works hard to keep businesses compliant 6875 3958 PayReel

Angie—our in-house HR specialist and newest member of the PayReel team—stays ahead of the game to ensure PayReel keeps our clients compliant. Keeping on top of the ins and outs of compliance is hard, time-consuming, high-stakes work. Isn’t it nice to know you have someone in your corner to keep your payroll services running smoothly and accurately?

 

Legal headaches handled

PayReel keeps up with ever-changing contractor/freelancer payment and compliance regulations. Angie makes sure our team knows the latest so they can keep our clients ahead of the game.

The benefits the PayReel team provides on the legal front are:

  • Mitigating compliance risks
  • Making sure we (both PayReel and our clients) are compliant
  • Educating clients on practices that could compromise them
  • Tracking benefits eligibility
  • Tracking changes in minimum wage and sick leave policies in each state
  • Answering questions, including whether or not you can pay once a month or fill timesheets out ahead of time. Hint: you can’t.

 

Quick and accurate payment

Beyond compliance, PayReel makes payroll services a breeze for clients. Payroll will be the easiest part of your day with PayReel’s full range of services:

  • Online management: Employees log hours and supervisors approve them—all online. No need for paperwork here.
  • Fast payment: Employees submit time cards by end of business on Monday,  the supervisor approves them, PayReel pays on Friday. It’s that easy.
  • Overtime tracking: PayReel keeps up with hours to make sure employees get paid accurately.
  • Education: PayReel supports clients in educating employees on overtime policies so they don’t make a habit of working overtime without getting prior approval.
  • Benefits eligibility: The PayReel team makes sure clients know when employees become eligible for benefits.

 

The bottom line

Everyone from Uber to Minor League Baseball is trying to figure out labor laws and fair pay. The gig economy and the worker classification challenges it brings to the forefront are top-of-mind topics for the government, employers, and employees alike.

Angie knows the biz and the people in the biz. If she hears about a possible change, she researches it and takes the necessary steps. She also reads forums like a boss—watching for changes on LegalWATCH and similar resources. Angie stays up to date on payroll regulations and works with the PayReel team to assist you in navigating the increasingly complicated waters of payroll services.

The PayReel team is on top of it—making sure we’re following all regulations, rules, and federal and state laws. For example, we carefully reviewed IC contracts when New York enacted its Freelance Isn’t Free Act.

In a nutshell: We stay ahead of the curve so our clients never even have to think about payroll services and compliance.

 

About PayReel

Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic. When it comes to event payroll, payroll taxes, and so much more, PayReel makes your life easier. We make sure our clients are able to hire who they want, when they want and see that everyone is paid properly. Leave all payroll services and details up to the PayReel team so you can focus on pulling off a flawless production. Contact us anytime at 303-526-4900 or email us here.

Relax. We got it.

 

About Angie:

Angie Aragon, PayReel’s in-house HR specialist, joined the PayReel team in early 2017. Her experience in human resources, risk management, and compliance gives her the tools to provide laser-focused attention and assistance to the PayReel employees who need it most. Meet the rest of the PayReel team by clicking here!

 

payreel payroll services - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

Introducing Angie: Our in-house HR specialist
Introducing Angie: Our in-house HR specialist 6000 4000 PayReel

Working live events can be chaotic and challenging. It’s nice to know you have someone in your corner. Angie, our in-house HR specialist and the newest member of the PayReel team helps us ensure our employees (like you!) get paid timely and accurately.

Quick and accurate payment

You submit timecards by end of business on Monday; your supervisor approves them; you get paid on Friday. It’s that easy.

And, of course, if you work overtime—you get paid for overtime. The PayReel team also makes sure you know when you become eligible for benefits.

No legal loopholes here

We’re not looking for a way around paying our employees fairly. We want you to get what you’ve earned. That’s why PayReel takes a proactive approach to staying on top of changing rules and regulations on both state and federal levels. Our in-house HR specialist Angie stays on top of industry news and changes to ensure compliance. At the first hint of a change, Angie works with the rest of the PayReel team to make the necessary adjustments quickly—with no extra work needed from you.

PayReel keeps up with ever-changing contractor and freelancer payment and compliance regulations with both internal conversations and external practices. You never even have to think about it.

The bottom line

Everyone from Uber to minor league baseball is trying to figure out labor laws and fair pay. The gig economy and the worker classification challenges it brings to the forefront are top-of-mind topics for the government, employers, and employees alike.

Our HR specialist Angie stays up to date on payroll regulations and works with the PayReel team to assist you in navigating the increasingly complicated waters of payroll.

About PayReel

At PayReel, we minimize the time and effort it takes to get you ready for your project, make sure you get paid quick and easy, and have customer service agents on call around the clock to answer your questions. All you have to do is call 303-526-4900 or email us here. Angie and the PayReel team make event payroll easier, faster, and seamless.

The next time you work an event or a production, tell your supervisor you love working with the PayReel team!

About Angie: 

Angie Aragon, PayReel’s in-house HR specialist, joined the PayReel team in early 2017. Her experience in human resources, risk management, and compliance gives her the tools to provide laser-focused attention and assistance to the PayReel employees who need it most. Meet the rest of the PayReel team by clicking here!

labor laws payreel - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

When America’s pastime and labor laws collide
When America’s pastime and labor laws collide 5404 3603 PayReel

Unpaid training. Unpaid overtime. A $25 stipend for an entire day spent in a city you don’t live in. If that sounds great to you and you know your way around a baseball diamond, head on over to your city’s minor league baseball team. You’d be a great fit.

We’re not talking about the guys in the majors whom you watch on TV. They make six figures per year on average. We’re talking about Minor League Baseball (MiLB) players who forego payment for training, overtime, and even mandatory events—often making under the IRS-defined poverty line of $12,060/year for a one person household.

 

Hold up. How is this happening?

If you’re having trouble believing me, you’re not alone.

In a piece for ESPN advocating for higher wages, Tony Blengino, a former assistant to the GM for the Mariners, says a first-year professional can expect to make a little over $1,000 pre tax every month. While other industries may point to thin profit margins as an excuse for low wages, professional baseball doesn’t fit the bill. Recent evaluation puts the average major league team’s worth at $1.54 billion.

That’s why a group of former minor leaguers are waging a class action lawsuit against Major League Baseball, who maintains that MiLB players are akin to hourly workers. The suit cites unfair wages and unjust labor practices according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. Of the 2,200 players currently involved in the class action lawsuit, most are inactive. Kyle Johnson, one of the few active members, said players fear being blackballed and unable to get a gig in the future.

The Major League Baseball Player’s Association (MLBPA) protects major league players against low salaries and unfair labor standards. However, this protection only applies to players currently on the team’s 40-man roster. Until MiLB players unionize, many keep quiet and hope they make it to the majors quickly. They choose to endure rather than potentially lose a shot at their dream.

 

So what does it all mean?

Baseball is only one of many industries figuring out labor laws and fair pay. Uber’s recent struggles show the gig economy and the worker classification challenges it brings to the forefront are top-of-mind topics for the government and employers alike. While some workers wait for the government to adjust labor laws and employers to fall in line, others (like the minor leaguers involved in current litigation) take the matter into their own hands. Stay in tune with the conversation to know your rights and navigate the increasingly complicated waters of the American economy.

 

About PayReel

Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic—and working them is even more so! At PayReel, we minimize the time and effort it takes to get you ready for your project, make sure you get paid quick and easy, and have customer service agents on call around the clock to answer your questions at 303-526-4900 or by emailing us here.

 

The next time you work an event or a production, tell your supervisor you love working with the PayReel team!

 

Nat's notes

About the author

PayReel Customer Experience Manager Natalie “The Go Getter” McGinnis is an avid sports and labor law fan alike. Her experience in recruitment, customer service, and ongoing HR education give her the tools to provide laser-focused attention and assistance to the PayReel employees and clients who need it most. Click here to read more of Nat’s Notes and meet the rest of the PayReel team by clicking here!

 

IRS mistakes cost big (even when they're not your fault) - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

IRS mistakes cost big (even when they’re not your fault)
IRS mistakes cost big (even when they’re not your fault) 4500 3000 PayReel

 

A case involving embezzlement, tax liability, and good intentions added up to a nightmare for one man. Dr. Robert McClendon’s story proves there’s no amount of caution too intense when it comes to payroll tax liability.

 

The road to hell is paved with good intentions

In a sobering case reported in Forbes, a man who loaned $100,000 to a struggling business was fined $4.3 million for said company’s payroll tax liability. When you dig into the details, it’s not as unfair as it may seem at first blush, but that doesn’t make the situation any less painful for Dr. McClendon—the defendant and a legally-deemed responsible party. As the Forbes article states, “You can be ‘willful’ under the tax law even if you didn’t have a bad motive or evil intent.”

So what was the kiss of death for Dr. McClendon?

 

Responsible & willful: A match made in IRS hell

Dr. McClendon owned the business to which he loaned the money and the cash went toward the seemingly noble goal of paying employees to prevent shuttering the doors altogether. While it was an employee who’d embezzled the funds earmarked for payroll taxes, the case against Dr. McClendon was strong enough to prove him responsible and willful. He wasn’t responsible for the embezzlement but he was responsible for choosing to pay employees instead of the payroll taxes, which by that time, he knew about. The case against Dr. McClendon withstood the legal tests and left the doc to nurse his own wounds. Ouch.

 

How to protect yourself

Either learn the rules of payroll taxes and precisely follow them or hire a qualified company to do it for you. The Forbes article suggests that one benefit to hiring a payroll service is that “the employer doesn’t have the discretion to use the money to pay vendors or for anything else.” It’s sort of like a much higher-stakes version of a 401K: If you can’t access the money when the temptation for an out-of-reach car comes up, you’ll still have it when you need it for less sexy reasons. Additionally, hiring a payroll service takes the burden of having to understand all of the rules and make heavy decisions off the company leadership.  The payroll service takes on the liability and frees up the small business to focus on business.

 

The bottom line:

There are too many ways to get in trouble with the IRS to choose ignorance. With fines and possible jail time on the line, legitimate small businesses must take payroll taxes seriously. The government sure does.

 

About PayReel

When it comes to payroll taxes and so much more, PayReel makes your life easier. Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic. At PayReel, we make sure our clients are able to hire who they want, when they want and that everyone is paid properly. Leave all payroll services and details up to the PayReel team so you can focus on pulling off a flawless production. Contact us anytime at 303-526-4900 or by emailing us here.

Relax. We got it.

 

independent contractor - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

Considering freelancing? Trump’s tax changes might convince you to take the leap.
Considering freelancing? Trump’s tax changes might convince you to take the leap. 5984 2703 PayReel

The freedom that comes with being an independent contractor often comes at a price. Being in the driver’s seat means managing your own schedule, finances, and a lot of other complex aspects of your career. Independent contractors must pay their own self-employment tax, pay for health insurance out of pocket, and don’t have paid time off or employer matching on retirement contributions. In addition, while there are multiple opportunities for deductions and credits on the tax front, keeping careful records is essential to being able to take advantage of them.  

While many people enjoy the relative stability of a full-time job, some crave the freedom and control of being an independent contractor. President Trump’s proposals for tax changes are far from guaranteed, but they may be enough to push some people off the fence and into freelance. 

So what do small business owners and potential small business owners need to know?

 

Trump’s plan includes lower tax rates for small business

Under Trump’s proposed tax code overhaul, some businesses would be subject to lower tax rates topping out at 15 percent instead of the current 35 percent. Such businesses include Subchapter S corporations and, in some cases, limited liability companies or partnerships. According to this New York Times article, that includes “those in which income and deductions accrue directly to the owners and are reported on their personal tax returns.” Lower tax rates increase the incentive for full-time employees to approach employers about working as an independent contractor instead. 

 

It’s still hypothetical

Like everything in government, this tax code overhaul will be up for debate. One major concern includes that such a reduction in tax revenues could mean an increase in national debt. Legislators will be sure to contribute their own opinions and carry out negotiations before anything actually changes. According to Trump, though, the plan is “very well finalized” and will become a focus after the ACA repeal efforts. One way or another, we’ll have some time before we see how things play out. 

 

The bottom line:

Don’t quit your day job. Well, at least not yet. Tax laws are always subject to change (so much so that even the original link on the Trump Administration’s website now leads to an error page). As such, tax considerations alone shouldn’t be the foundation for a decision as big as becoming an independent contractor. The bigger question is whether freelancing is the right fit for your life. If it is, then go ahead and get behind the driver’s seat. Enjoy the ride and be sure to track those business miles—they’re deductible!

 

 

About PayReel

Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic. At PayReel, we make sure our clients are able to hire who they want, when they want, and that everyone is paid properly. Leave all payroll services and details (even managing your independent contractors!) up to the PayReel team so you can focus on pulling off a flawless production. Contact us anytime at 303-526-4900 or by emailing us here.

Relax. We got it.

pay temp employees payreel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

How to pay temp employees and freelancers fairly and accurately
How to pay temp employees and freelancers fairly and accurately 4416 2676 PayReel

 

According to a study by Princeton University, 95% of the 10 million new jobs added during President Obama’s terms were temporary or part-time. Unfortunately, the reality for many such workers is difficult. Often, they lack access to benefits, work overtime without corresponding compensation, and deal with clients who pay late or don’t pay at all.

On the other end, employers often have a difficult time keeping up with contractor and freelancer management. Staying on top of ever-evolving laws, minimum wage and overtime change benefits eligibility, and the differences between state and local regulations are time-consuming. It is a worthwhile investment, though. It raises businesses to preferred client status among contract workers and helps protect them from costly fines, to boot.

If you’re wondering how to pay temp employees and freelancers fairly and accurately, we can help.

 

How to pay temp employees and freelancers accurately and fairly

Accurate worker classification is an essential starting place. It’s easy to get wrong, but with your reputation and large fines on the line, it’s also important to get it right. Here’s a list of the most common classification errors and how to avoid them. Here are some basic guidelines for identifying the difference between employees and independent contractors.

Pay accurately and on time. Some big companies make a habit of net 90, but we don’t recommend it. Net 30 is more ethical and ultimately better for business. Here’s why. The dust hasn’t settled on new overtime regulations or minimum wage debates, but here are our suggestions on this front.

Be proactive about benefits and keep up with evolving state and local laws rather than waiting for workers to knock on your door. Transparency is a great way to build trust. 

 

The bottom line:

We know you care about your freelancers, but they only know it if you show it. Taking these measures makes sure you handle your freelancers in a way that is ethical, shows your appreciation, and keeps you compliant.

We know you’re busy. If you don’t have the time, resources, or desire to pay attention to all the details, hire an expert to keep track of contractor and freelancer management for you. Our team of experts and our PayReel OnLine software are fully equipped to help you sort out the rules and execute processes while also balancing contractor expectations, legalities, and company budgets. This quiz can help you decide if you’d benefit from hiring a team like PayReel.  

We help you care about your workers even when you’re short on time. We think happy workers and peace of mind are pretty close to priceless. 

 

About PayReel

Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic. At PayReel, we make sure our clients are able to hire who they want when they want and that everyone is paid properly. Leave the details up to the PayReel team so you can focus on pulling off a flawless production. Contact us anytime at 303-526-4900 or by emailing us here.

Relax. We got it.

 

money car calculator - PayReel
  • PayReel
  • No Comments

How much money will you save now that mileage rates have decreased?
How much money will you save now that mileage rates have decreased? 6016 4016 PayReel

 

You love your freelancers because they go the extra mile. Now that extra mile is going to cost you less.

Effective Jan. 1, standard mileage rates for using a personal vehicle for business purposes will be just a little lower than they were in 2016. Here is the CliffsNotes on how the mileage rates decrease could affect you and your budget.

 

What’s the new breakdown?

 

  • 53.5 cents per mile driven for business purposes (down from 54 cents in 2016)
  • 17 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes (down from 19 cents for 2016)
  • 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations (the same as 2016)

As you can see, the decrease isn’t drastic. But as the miles add up, every little bit counts.

If you pay your freelancers for actual costs, you should still expect to cover maintenance, insurance, and other expenses.

 

How are standard mileage rates determined?

 

Standard mileage rates are determined based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. Sharply declining fuel prices contributed to this year’s drop. The decrease was relatively minimal because other expenses, such as insurance and maintenance, increased.

 

What do I need to know about mileage rates?

 

You can find all the nitty-gritty details and government legalese about mileage rates and more here. In a nutshell: You’ll be paying your freelancers less for the miles they drive for business purposes in 2017.

 

Producing multimedia content and executing live events is chaotic. At PayReel, we make sure our clients are able to hire who they want when they want and that everyone is paid properly. Leave the details up to the PayReel team so you can focus on pulling off a flawless production. Contact us anytime at 303-526-4900 or by emailing us here.

Relax. We got it.

 

Enter your
text here

LOG IN TO PAYREEL ONLINE

Contact Us